Polar Bear

Ursus maritimus

Polar bears are survival specialists in an extreme environment—the Arctic, where winter lasts six months and temperatures average -30ºF. Their large body size, layers of thick, hollow hair, and three to four inches of blubber provide insulation from the cold, in and out of the water. The bears’ streamlined shape, partially webbed forepaws, and buoyant layer of blubber help make them champion swimmers. The polar bear is a skillful predator of seals, with the help of a keen sense of smell, powerful paws, and sharp claws.

  • Polar bears depend completely upon the sea for their existence, spending most of their time on the pack ice. 
  • Nine-inch wide snowshoe-like paws spread the bear’s weight evenly over a large area, preventing it from sinking into the snow.
  • Although polar bear hair may look white, it is actually clear. It only looks white because it reflects the sunlight.
  • Underneath its large, shaggy coat, the polar bear’s skin is black, perhaps to attract the sun’s heat.

Fact File

species at risk Species Survival Plan
  • Height: 7 to 11 ft
  • Weight: Male - Up to 1,500 lbs,
    • Female - Up to 650 lbs
  • Lifespan: 15 to 18 yrs in the wild
  • Habitat: Arctic ice and coastal shores
  • Prey: Primarily seals, some walrus, lemmings, lichens, mosses, and carrion
  • Status: Species at Risk (IUCN—Vulnerable)

Polar Bears In Action

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Polar Bears in Action

Super Sniffer:

The polar bear can sniff out its prey from over three miles away.

Range:

Arctic Ocean and coasts

Predicting Pregnancies

Scientists at the Zoo’s Lindner Center for Conservation and Research (CREW) have developed a way to predict when polar bears have ovulated and may be pregnant by measuring hormones, which enables zoos to properly care for expectant mothers.

Meet a Bear Zookeeper

Talk with a zookeeper at the Lords of the Arctic polar bear exhibit at 11:30am every day except Mondays through September 6.

Save Energy, Save Polar Bears

The Zoo partners with Polar Bears International to increase awareness of how global warming is impacting polar bears. Help out bears by using less energy and reducing carbon emissions.